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Question:
I have had an AC separation for the last 4 months after seeing an orthopedic doctor who suggested that to leave it alone and live with the bone sticking up. Can I opt to have surgery on the AC and have a titanium bolt placed into the clavicle to secure it back in place. Is it a reasonably safe operation without any ligament problems?
| Dr. Bailie |
Dr. David S. Bailie chairs the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Scottsdale Healthcare Shea (Hospital) in Scottsdale, Arizona, and he sees patients from all walks of life at The Orthopedic Clinic Association (TOCA) in Scottsdale, Arizona. A graduate of the University of Michigan, the Indiana University School of Medicine and was a post-graduate fellowship in Sports Medicine and Arthroscopic Surgery at Baylor Sports Medicine Institute in Houston, Texas. , Dr. Bailie specializes in all sports medicine injuries and arthroscopic surgery, including shoulder reconstruction.
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Answer:
Surgery for AC separation is indicated for some type III, most Types 4,5,6. Screws are not used that often and I would recommend allografts tendon to reconstruct the torn ligaments. This works well without having a screw to worry about. (They can break, come loose and require removal.)
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